Reichsstädter Advent Aalen

Aalen's Christmas Market in New Guise

The Reichsstädter Advent is the central Christmas market in the city of Aalen, located in the Ostalb district in Baden-Württemberg. What was simply known as the 'Aalener Weihnachtsmarkt' for decades has renewed its name, acknowledging Aalen's history as a former Free Imperial City. From November 25th to December 23rd, 2026, it opens daily on Spritzenhausplatz in the city center.

Spritzenhausplatz: Central and Atmospheric

Spritzenhausplatz is centrally located between the market square and the city center, easily accessible on foot and by public transport. During the Reichsstädter Advent, it is decorated, illuminated, and equipped with municipal wooden huts – all uniformly designed, operated by rotating exhibitor communities: associations from Aalen and its districts, schools, and kindergartens, local artists, and craftspeople.

Stage Program by Aalen's Associations

A small stage in the middle of the square will host a live program throughout the five weeks: school choirs, kindergarten performances, brass bands, trombone choirs, and student bands. The program is coordinated by the Cultural and Press Office of the City of Aalen in conjunction with the associations – a true community event, not a commercial mass market.

What You'll Find at the Market

Christmas crafts and gift ideas – wood carvings, candles, jewelry, textiles, gingerbread, regional honeys, straw and wooden stars. Plus Aalen's gastronomy with mulled wine, punch, bratwurst, chestnuts, candied almonds, crêpes, tarte flambée, and vegetarian specialties. Association stalls serve mulled wine for the benefit of charitable projects.

Aalen in the Ostalb District

With around 68,000 inhabitants, Aalen is the largest city in the Ostalb district, situated between the Swabian Jura and the Welzheimer Wald. The city was a Free Imperial City and is now home to a renowned University of Technology and Economics. Spritzenhausplatz is centrally located, perfect for an Advent stroll combined with a visit to the Limes Museum or the Tiefen Stollen (show mine).